Riding The Swarm in the Dark: Why It’s a Whole New Experience

When the sun sets over Thorpe Park, something incredible happens — the rides take on a whole new personality. And few attractions transform quite as dramatically as The Swarm. Known for its apocalyptic theme, daring near-misses, and smooth-yet-intense flight, riding The Swarm after dark isn’t just a thrill — it’s a completely new experience that even seasoned coaster fans shouldn’t miss.

Opened in 2012, The Swarm was the UK’s first Wing Coaster, designed by Bolliger & Mabillard (B&M). Riders are seated on either side of the track, leaving nothing above or below them — a setup that amplifies the sensation of flight. With speeds reaching 59 mph, multiple inversions, and breathtaking near-miss elements through crashed planes and church ruins, The Swarm delivers one of the most immersive ride experiences in the country.

In daylight, it’s a spectacular showcase of speed and precision. But at night? It’s an entirely different beast.

The Darkness Heightens Every Twist and Turn

During the day, you can see the track ahead — each roll and inversion coming at you in clear view. At night, the darkness cloaks the track, and your brain has no idea what’s coming next. Every drop feels deeper, every inversion sharper, and every dive completely unpredictable.

It’s pure sensory chaos in the best way possible. You’re not just riding — you’re trusting your instincts as you plunge through the unknown.

Cooler Temperatures Mean Faster Rides

Here’s a fun little secret for coaster enthusiasts: cooler evening air can make roller coasters run faster. As the grease and wheels cool, friction slightly reduces, and trains can pick up extra speed through the course.

That means your night ride on The Swarm might just be the fastest run of the day — adding an extra layer of intensity to those near-miss elements.

The View from the Top Is Unforgettable

As you crest the 127-foot lift hill, you can see the lights of Thorpe Park shimmering below and the faint glow of London on the horizon. For a brief second, there’s silence — and then you’re diving straight into darkness.

That breathtaking view, followed by an adrenaline-charged plunge into the unknown, makes every night ride feel epic and cinematic.

Fewer Crowds, More Rides

During special events like Fright Nights, Thorpe Park often stays open late, giving you the chance to ride The Swarm multiple times after dark. Lines are typically shorter later in the evening, meaning you can grab back-to-back night rides and experience subtle differences in each one — front row for the visuals, back row for raw intensity.

The Swarm Island Feels Truly Apocalyptic at Night

By day, the crash site theme is impressive. But by night, Swarm Island transforms. Smoke machines, flickering fires, and emergency sirens fill the air. Every prop — from the destroyed fire engine to the impaled church steeple — looks eerily real under the moody lighting.

It’s not just a ride anymore — it’s a fully immersive horror setting, and you’re right in the middle of it.

Riding The Swarm in the dark isn’t just another coaster ride — it’s a sensory overload that amplifies everything that makes the attraction special. The darkness, lighting, and atmosphere combine to create a heart-pounding, cinematic experience that feels brand new, even if you’ve ridden it a dozen times before.

If you think you know The Swarm, think again. The night will prove you wrong.